Fujairah is one of the most business-friendly emirates in the UAE, especially for startups and SMEs. With its strategic location on the eastern coast, affordable setup costs, and business-supportive infrastructure, it has become a smart choice for many entrepreneurs. Whether you’re eyeing a Fujairah Free Zone license or a mainland trade license in Fujairah, understanding the actual Fujairah trade license cost is essential to plan your budget.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything about the cost of trade license in Fujairah, types of licenses, hidden charges, renewal fees, and why it’s an ideal location for your business.
Types of Trade Licenses in Fujairah
To understand the Fujairah trade license fees, it’s important to know the license types available. Fujairah offers three main types:
Commercial License in Fujairah
This is the most common license and is ideal for businesses involved in buying and selling goods. It allows import-export activities and local trading.
Industrial License in Fujairah
Issued to companies involved in manufacturing, production, or assembling. An industrial facility is mandatory for this license.
Professional License in Fujairah
This is for individuals or businesses offering consultancy, IT services, marketing, accounting, etc. It is also called a service license.
Fujairah Free Zone License
Fujairah Free Zone Authority (FFZA) offers a variety of licenses with cost-effective packages. This includes trading, service, and industrial licenses with flexible visa quotas and office solutions.
Fujairah Trade License Cost Breakdown
The cost of trade license in Fujairah varies depending on the location (mainland or free zone), business activity, visa quota, and office requirements.
Fujairah Mainland Trade License Cost
The average Fujairah mainland license cost ranges from AED 12,000 to AED 18,000 for a basic package with no visas.
Key Factors Affecting Mainland Cost:
- Business activity type
- Number of visa allocations
- Office/shop rental cost
- Local sponsor (for foreign investors)
- Municipality fees
Fujairah Free Zone License Cost
The Fujairah Free Zone license cost starts from AED 6,000 for zero visa packages and can go up to AED 25,000 or more based on office space and visa requirements.
Common Free Zone Packages Include:
- Zero Visa Package: AED 6,000 to AED 8,000
- 1-visa Package: AED 10,000 to AED 12,000
- 2-visa Package: AED 13,000 to AED 15,000
- 5-visa Package with office: AED 20,000 to AED 25,000
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the total Fujairah business setup cost, consider these extra expenses:
Office Rent in Fujairah
Even Free Zone licenses often need a physical address. Business centers offer shared desk or office solutions from AED 5,000 annually.
Visa Costs
Each visa can cost between AED 3,500 to AED 5,000, including medical, Emirates ID, and stamping.
Sponsorship Fee (Mainland Only)
A local sponsor is required for mainland businesses. Sponsorship fees can range from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 yearly.
Government Fees
Some fees include:
- Chamber of Commerce fees
- Name reservation and initial approval
- Trade license issuance fee
- Municipality tax or service fee
Renewal Cost of Fujairah Trade License
The Fujairah trade license renewal cost is generally lower than the initial setup. Renewal costs typically range from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000, depending on the license type and visa quota.
Advantages of Business Setup in Fujairah
Choosing Fujairah for business setup offers multiple benefits:
Strategic Location
Easy access to east and west shipping lanes makes it ideal for import-export businesses.
Affordable Setup
Compared to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, Fujairah trade license cost is significantly lower.
Tax Benefits
Zero personal income tax and low corporate tax policies.
Easy Company Formation
Quick approval processes and minimal documentation make business formation easier.
Flexible Office Solutions
Options from Flexi-desks to full offices in Free Zones.
How to Apply for a Fujairah Trade License
Getting your license involves a simple process:
Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity
Be clear about your business scope to determine the right license type.
Step 2: Select Location – Mainland or Free Zone
Mainland gives more local business flexibility, while Free Zones offer low cost and 100% ownership.
Step 3: Reserve Business Name and Get Approvals
Apply for name reservation and initial approval from relevant authority.
Step 4: Prepare Documents
Prepare passport copies, business plan, application form, and NOC (if needed).
Step 5: Submit Application and Pay Fees
Pay the required Fujairah trade license fees and submit your application.
Step 6: Get Your License Issued
Once approved, you will receive your trade license and can begin operations.
Documents Required for Fujairah Business License
- Passport copy of shareholders
- Visa copy (if UAE resident)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Trade name reservation certificate
- Initial approval certificate
- Lease agreement (if office required)
Top Free Zones in Fujairah
Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ)
Ideal for trading, service, and industrial activities. Known for fast processing and flexible packages.
Creative City Fujairah
Popular among media, tech, consultancy, and freelance professionals. Great for entrepreneurs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Estimating License Cost
- Ignoring visa-related expenses
- Not budgeting for renewals
- Overlooking mandatory office space costs
- Misjudging sponsorship and government service fees
How to Reduce Fujairah Trade License Cost
- Choose zero-visa or 1-visa Free Zone packages
- Opt for shared desk or virtual office solutions
- Bundle services through business setup consultants
- Apply during promotions or government subsidy programs
Is Fujairah the Right Emirate for You?
If you’re seeking low-cost business setup in UAE with strategic logistics access and fast license issuance, Fujairah is an excellent choice.
Conclusion
Understanding the Fujairah trade license cost is key to starting smart. With clear pricing options, minimal bureaucracy, and affordable setup, Fujairah makes business easier for new entrepreneurs. Whether you choose mainland or Fujairah Free Zone, the emirate supports growth through flexibility and cost savings.
For a smooth and affordable business setup in UAE, Fujairah is a reliable and budget-friendly option.
FAQs
How much does a Fujairah Free Zone license cost?
Starts from AED 6,000 for zero visa package and goes up based on office and visa needs.
What is the renewal cost of Fujairah business license?
Typically ranges from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 annually.
Do I need a local sponsor in Fujairah?
Only for mainland businesses. Free Zones offer 100% foreign ownership.
Can I get multiple visas under one license?
Yes, depending on the license package and office space chosen.
What’s cheaper: mainland or Free Zone license in Fujairah?
Free Zone licenses are generally cheaper and faster to obtain.
Which Free Zone is best in Fujairah?
Fujairah Free Zone (FFZ) for trading; Creative City for media and consultancy.
How long does it take to get a trade license in Fujairah?
Usually between 3 to 7 working days.
Can I upgrade my trade license later?
Yes, you can upgrade or change business activity by applying with the respective authority.
Is Fujairah license valid across UAE?
Free Zone licenses can operate within the Free Zone; mainland licenses allow wider UAE market access.
Are there any hidden charges in Fujairah license packages?
There can be extra charges for visa, office rent, and municipality fees. Always check the full cost breakdown before proceeding.
